The perfect pink: MUA Luxe Velvet and The Perfect you.

They say it takes on average 7 attempts to take the perfect "selfie". Well I don't know about perfect but I managed to be happy with this self portrait in 6 attempts with the aid of my DSLR (or as I call it "The Fancy Camera I share with my Dad), a remote control, a homemade tripod because mine is broken, & some decent natural lighting.

This look is sort of a variation on theme for me but it's part of an attempt to branch out and become more adventurous again and hopefully as a result become less judgemental of myself. It's a subtle move I'll give you that but I'm so tired of the rut that I'm in with make up and clothes. I'm hoping that by doing this series of make up and outfit self portraits I will be encouraged to branch out, be happier and more confident. Because ultimately, although I don't care about being thinner or prettier. I'm still a girl. And we are trained from a very young age to look for flaws within ourselves and to change them. A small scar on the lip, a round face instead of an oval, a slightly lazy eye. These are the things we need to learn to truly love before we tear ourselves apart.

As for the makeup itself! Things to note are that no matter how good your eyeliner brush (mine is from Zoeva and I love it) it can be quite tricky creating a double flick using only eyeshadow. MAC Carbon is used here but sometimes I really wish I wasn't allergic to normal liners and could get that crisp line I so very much crave! On the lids was a light blend of Carbon & a Barry M Dazzle Dust Yellow. I haven't used dazzle dust as actual eyeshadow in ages and forgot just how nice they are, even if I'm not their target age range anymore. 

On the lip I used MUA Luxe Velvet Lip Laquer in Criminal which is a pretty decent dupe of Lime Crime's Velveteen and a bargain at only £3. Most high street/drugstore brands have their own attempts to recreate this super Matte long lasting look but this is my favourite and fits my tight budget perfectly!